Search continues for Farmington stabbing suspect, public 'not in danger'

As the investigation continues into a stabbing at Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack in Farmington, Ontario County Sheriff Phil Povero assures residents and patrons that they are not in imminent danger.

FARMINGTON — As the investigation continues into a stabbing at Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack in Farmington, Ontario County Sheriff Phil Povero assures residents and patrons that they are not in imminent danger.

“The investigation is ongoing," Povero said Saturday night of the stabbing, which occurred between 10 and 11 a.m. Friday, July 4. “We're still trying to locate a suspect from yesterday. We have not at this point, but that continues.”

The victim of the attack, a horse groomer at Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack, remains in stable condition at Strong Memorial Hospital as he recovers from wounds, Povero said. His identity is not being released, as police are still trying to identify some of the individuals who may have been witnesses, he said.

This is the second attack on a horse groomer this past week. Luiz Garcia Cruz, 23, of 419 Terri Drive, in Hunt's Mobile Home Park in Farmington, sustained multiple gunshot wounds in front of his home at about 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 2. Cruz remains in guarded condition at Strong Memorial Hospital, as of press time.

Povero said it is believed Cruz knew the assailant, and the shooting may have occurred as a result of an altercation between the victim and the shooter.

“It is unfortunate,” said Povero, “but we really want to remind people who frequent the racino and the racetrack and reside at Hunt's Mobile Home Park that the targets were specifically identified, and residents and persons attending should not feel any threat or ill at ease.”

FLGR Senior Director of Marketing Steve Martin released the following statement Friday: "The assault that occurred this morning took place within a secured area of the property that is not accessible to the public and is far removed from the racetrack and gaming floor patron areas. This appears to be a domestic incident between two individuals who assist trainers in caring for horses and are not directly employed by our company. Our thoughts are with the victim and his family at this time and we will continue to actively support the Ontario County Sheriffs Department and New York State Police in their investigation of the incident. Our focus will always be on providing a safe and comfortable entertainment experience for our guests."